Police oppose licence bid

THE OWNER of a popular seafront pub has applied for a licence to extend its hours for drinking, dancing and disco music.

Stephen Foot, landlord of the London Trader in East Beach Street, wants to extend his hours to 12.15am for much of its licensed activities.

But police object to the application stating it will not promote the licensing objectives, particularly the prevention of crime and disorder and public nuisance.

A number of conditions were imposed on the pub in October last year by the borough council’s licensing sub committee after a review of the premises licence.

An appeal was issued via the magistrates court in April when the bench ruled the members of the committee had come to a correct decision.

Councillors will decide on October 16 whether to allow the latest application.

Chief inspector Heather Keating, district commander of Hastings, is objecting to the bid.

In a letter to the council’s licensing manager Bob Brown, chief inspector Keating states: “Four months have passed since the date of the appeal hearing and Sussex Police contend that is not a suitable period of time for the management to demonstrate control of the premises.”

Since April 10, there have been four incidents.

On July 11, a man was assaulted within the premises. The victim was struck on the head. Police believe the actions of the suspect gave the staff cause for concern prior to the attack. Had the appropriate action been taken, the assault may have been prevented.

On July 22 patrons were found to be obstructing the pavement and road outside.

On August 4, cordon barriers had been positioned in the wrong place obstructing the pavement.

And on August 11, an aggressive male who barged past door staff managed to get through the main doors, was found by police inside the toilets.

When police made enquiries, a member of door staff stated that he was working alone and the Barwatch radio had been broken for at least two weeks

Councillors can grant the application in full, grant part of it, grant it with conditions or refuse it outright. The meeting will be held at the Town Hall starting at 9.30am.